At Northeastern University, the Academic Integrity Policy is administered by the Office of Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution, known as OSCCR. After a report, OSCCR decides whether a case warrants a hearing or only an “Information Only” educational notice. Cases that go forward are heard either in an administrative hearing or, for more serious matters, by the Student Conduct Board. Northeastern’s process uses trained Hearing Advisors from the Northeastern community, and OSCCR states that parents, friends, and lawyers do not have a direct role.
A note on policies: universities revise their policies and procedures over time, and the process that governs any particular case is the one in effect for that case. This article describes the general structure of Northeastern’s process as the university has published it. Northeastern’s current Academic Integrity Policy and Code of Student Conduct are the controlling sources.
How Does a Northeastern Case Begin?
A faculty member or other community member reports a suspected violation to OSCCR. Northeastern’s policy advises faculty to speak with a student before reporting them.
According to Northeastern, the director of OSCCR reviews each complaint to determine whether sufficient evidence of a violation exists.
What Is an “Information Only” Notice?
It is an educational reminder notice that Northeastern can issue instead of holding a hearing.
According to OSCCR, the director or a designee reviews the report, supporting documents, and any prior conduct history to decide whether an administrative hearing is necessary or whether an “Information Only” notice is appropriate.
Which Cases Go to the Student Conduct Board?
More serious cases go to the Student Conduct Board rather than an administrative hearing.
OSCCR states that cases are referred to the Student Conduct Board when they are more complex or severe, when the student has notable disciplinary history, or when the case risks suspension or expulsion. In that situation, the student meets with a Hearing Administrator to review the Student Conduct Board process.
What Standard Does Northeastern Use?
OSCCR states that a student is found responsible if the hearing body determines that “more likely than not” the student violated the Code.
OSCCR also notes that the academic integrity hearing process and the decision about the student’s grade are separate processes.
Can a Student Have an Advisor at Northeastern?
Yes, a Hearing Advisor, but not an outside one. OSCCR describes a Hearing Advisor as a member of the Northeastern community trained by OSCCR to help students with the hearing process. The advisor can attend a Student Conduct Board hearing but may not speak on the student’s behalf.
OSCCR also states that parents, friends, and lawyers do not have a direct role in the conduct process. Students can still work with an outside attorney to prepare before a hearing.
What Sanctions and Appeals Are Possible?
According to Northeastern’s policy, sanctions for a violation range from a written warning to expulsion and include an action meant to help rebuild trust within the community. Hearing officers consider factors including the student’s past conduct record.
Students may appeal on the three grounds identified in Northeastern’s Code of Student Conduct. OSCCR also states that a student who accepted responsibility can still appeal the sanctions in certain circumstances, such as undue hardship or an extraordinary circumstance.
Common Misconceptions About Northeastern Cases
“Every report leads to a hearing.” OSCCR may issue an “Information Only” educational notice instead.
“The hearing decides my grade.” OSCCR states the hearing process and the grade decision are separate.
“I can bring a lawyer to my hearing.” OSCCR states that lawyers don’t have a direct role; Hearing Advisors come from the Northeastern community.
“If I accept responsibility, I can’t appeal anything.” OSCCR states that sanctions can still be appealed in certain circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who handles academic integrity cases at Northeastern?
The Office of Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution (OSCCR).
What is a Hearing Advisor at Northeastern?
A member of the Northeastern community trained by OSCCR to help students through the hearing process. The advisor can attend a Student Conduct Board hearing but can’t speak for the student.
Can I bring a lawyer to a Northeastern conduct hearing?
No. OSCCR states that lawyers don’t have a direct role in the process, though students can work with one to prepare beforehand.
What standard of proof does Northeastern use?
“More likely than not,” according to OSCCR.
Representation in Northeastern Academic Integrity Cases
Every case turns on its specific facts and on the university’s policies as they stand at the time of the case, and policies and procedures can change. Attorney Richard Asselta is a student defense attorney who represents students in academic misconduct cases at colleges and universities nationwide, including Northeastern. At schools where outside advisors can’t attend hearings, he helps students prepare their written responses, evidence, and hearing presentations. Call 855-338-5299.